Advancing Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB): Highlights of the Consultations in Indonesia and FoRB Training in Oman

Consultation & Training | November 2024

The Peacemakers Network, through its Joint Initiative for Strategic Action (JISRA) program, is dedicated to fostering inclusivity, knowledge, and partnerships to advance freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) and promote peaceful coexistence globally. In November, the Peacemakers Network convened two pivotal consultations in Jakarta, Indonesia, and a FoRB training in Muscat, Oman–each focused on advancing the implementation of the Marrakech Declaration while addressing unique regional contexts and challenges.

Indonesia: Regional Consultations for the Marrakech Declaration

The Peacemakers Network convened two consultative workshops in Jakarta, Indonesia from November 8-9, focusing on the application of the Marrakech Declaration in Asia. Bringing together religious leaders, academics, government representatives, and civil society from countries such as Malaysia, India, Thailand, and the Philippines, the workshops explored the intersection of Islamic traditions and universal human rights to protect minority rights in Muslim-majority states.

The sessions began with an overview of the global and regional state of FoRB, followed by presentations highlighting country-specific contexts, such as Malaysia and India. Participants were introduced to the Marrakech Declaration’s principles, emphasizing equal citizenship, inclusion, and the responsibilities of religious leaders in fostering societal harmony. A key challenge identified was the lack of awareness and implementation among key stakeholders, underscoring the need for targeted education and advocacy efforts.

Regional consultation workshop on advancing the Implementation of the Marrakech Declaration in Jakarta, Indonesia: group discussion to develop action plans. 2024.

Through group discussions, participants developed actionable strategies tailored to their respective countries, addressing challenges like capacity building, decentralization, and legal reforms. These discussions culminated in a network of religious and traditional actors committed to advancing the Declaration and sharing good practices.

Regional consultation workshop on advancing the Implementation of the Marrakech declaration: group photo. 2024.

Oman: Strengthening Religious Literacy and Promoting Pluralism

Building on the momentum and in collaboration with the Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs of the Sultanate of Oman, the Peacemakers Network held a three-day training from November 13-16 for JISRA partners from Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. The training aimed to deepen understanding of Islam’s principles related to religious diversity and FoRB by exploring Islamic theology, the Quran, and the Sunnah. Participants examined tools such as the Medina Charter and the farewell sermon to contextualize the principles of mutual respect and coexistence.

A keynote speech by His Excellency Dr. Mohammad bin Said Al Mamari, Oman’s Minister for Endowments and Religious Affairs, underscored the country’s historical commitment to peacemaking and tolerance. Highlighting Oman’s “three circles” approach to advancing FoRB–knowledge-sharing, societal application, and recognition of rights–the Minister engaged participants in a dialogue about their country-specific challenges. The training also provided a platform for participants to develop outcome documents aligned with the Marrakech Declaration, exploring strategies such as education, legal reforms, and the role of women, youth, and media in fostering religious freedom.

His Excellency Dr. Mohammad bin Said Al Mamari, Oman’s Minister for Endowments and Religious Affairs, sharing remarks. 2024.

The event concluded with a cultural immersion experience, including visits to the Grand Mosque, Musuem, and Muttrah Souq, offering participants a glimpse of Oman’s rich heritage and values of coexistence.

Participants share a group photo at the Oman JISRA Consultation. 2024.

Toward a Roadmap for Implementation

The consultations in Oman and Indonesia represent critical steps in a broader effort to advance the Marrakech Declaration. Alongside previous consultations in Addis Ababa and upcoming forums in the Middles East and North Africa, these events are shaping a comprehensive roadmap for implementing the Declaration globally. By fostering collaboration across regions, the Peacemakers Network continues to build momentum for a more inclusive and peaceful future.